We’ve spent hours researching the best options available on the market, so that the next time you hear an unsettling sound outside, you’ll know with just a glance if it’s something you should worry about or not. Keep reading to learn about the best outdoor security lights for your property. An outdoor security light will need to be resilient enough to survive outdoor weather conditions, depending on where you live. From freezing temperatures to scorching summers, it’s essential to ensure that the outdoor security light you select is strong enough to survive the elements. Another essential question is asking where you intend on mounting the outdoor security light. Some options are battery-powered, allowing them to be installed almost anywhere. However, some options will require a wired connection. Consider this factor when shopping for your outdoor security light. Lastly, some outdoor security lights enable you to control them from a smartphone app or smart assistant. If this is a feature that you would desire, check for it when making your selection. We also love that the Arlo is wire-free, which makes installation a cinch. But if you want a brighter light and no battery to recharge, then you can opt for an AC-powered version. The Arlo light works with Arlo cameras (naturally), and did we mention you can change the light’s color? The Arlo app gives you a full-color spectrum to choose from, and you can set specific colors for specific events, like for the light to flash purple when it detects motion. Make sure you’re getting the power type for the brightness level you want. If you have other smart devices, like smart door locks or a home security system, then the Sengled lets you make everything work together. The Heath Zenith HZ-5872 also has what it calls the “Creep Zone.” That basically means that it can detect when someone’s standing right under its motion detector or trying to sneak along the wall. There’s no escaping. As with most things Arlo, you also get to choose from a solar-, battery-, or AC-powered model. The battery model will be the most convenient as far as installation goes, but if you really want to take advantage of all the Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight’s best features, go for the wired model. It’s also pretty cheap, which is great if you want to put a few of them around your place. Luckily, the light’s not too expensive. But you can definitely find something more durable for your money if you don’t mind a less pleasant look. Arlo Security Light: Most versatile—The Arlo Security Light gives you just about every feature you could want in an outdoor security light. You can change its color, customize its settings, make it work with your cameras, and integrate it with other smart devices. Just know it’s not the brightest light on offer. Ring security lights: Best lighting system—If you want to get a bunch of different security lights to position around your yard, then Ring offers different lighting models that all work together in sequence. Control all of them in one place through the Ring app. Sengled Smart LED Lightbulb: Best motion sensor lightbulb—The Sengled Smart LED Lightbulb works with different smart hubs and devices to let you customize your light settings and functions. Great for Samsung SmartThings or Alexa Show users. Heath Zenith HZ-5872: Best for wide spaces—The Heath Zenith HZ-5872’s three-wide lamps can light up big, wide spaces pretty easily. It’s bright and has wide motion activation, so no one’s going to sneak past it without triggering the light. Mr. Beams MB300: Best budget buy—The Mr. Beams MB300 gives you a simple, easy-to-install security light for less than $20. Not a bad deal. Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight Camera: Best security light plus camera—The Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight Camera is the best of the best as far as both floodlights and cameras go. So much so that it might have more features than you need (or want to pay for). Hyperikon LED Security Area Light: Best for backyards—The Hyperikon LED Security Light with Triple Heads is great for backyards where you want to see a lot of space without buying three separate lights. Light It! Soft Glow: Best for trip hazards—The Light It! Soft Glow gives off a muted, motion-activated light so you can see your way in the dark. It’s not meant for scaring off intruders so much as it is helping you not trip over your backyard firepit. MAXSA LED Wall Sconce: Best subtle light—If you want outdoor security lights that don’t scream, “I am an outdoor security light!” then the MAXSA LED Wall Sconce gives you a much more stealthy lighting option. And it’s still easy to set up without wiring anything. What’s your favorite outdoor security light? Do you use several throughout your yard or rely on one major floodlight? Let us know in the comments!
Price: Selecting a wide range of products at different price points isn’t enough. We had to ensure that each product chosen for our guide delivered a substantial value, giving you the most for your money. Weather Rating: Outdoor lights must contend with potentially harsh weather, including freezing temperatures and blistering hot days. Each option on our list offers a level of protection from the elements. Brightness: What good is a light that doesn’t illuminate everything? We took a close look at each light’s brightness, measured in lumens so that you can keep an eye on everything. Smart home integration: In the 21st century, some lights offer smart home integration, allowing you to control power level and more from your smartphone—we have highlighted these options.
